Latest Depression Articles

How to Treat Depression and Panic Problem

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 03:27:00 -0700

Most people often wonder if there is a connection between panic and depression. Researchers and analysts argue that there is indeed a strong link between both conditions.

Detailed description so you understand better:
First, it has been proven by a strong research and analysis that chronic pain disorder can result in depression. The condition is most common in people who have run out easily from chronic anxiety, which accompanies panic.

People who have developed a condition known as agoraphobia to whether a large area of restricted socializing, driving or facing the challenges of life. Agoraphobia is a condition that tends to avoid certain activities due to a fear of panic.

When panic results in depression, patients often complain about this to their attention. They feel that the first strike attack and then comes the depression. They often feel that once they are free of panic or agoraphobia attack, they would be automatically relieved of depression.

These patients would only be relieved when they are treated for panic.

Some experts also feel that the depression of an intense degree can give birth to panic. There are people who get affected by depression and panic at the same time. In this case, the anxiety of the elements of depression is strong enough, and then it is quite possible that depression leads to panic.

In these circumstances, a patient is concerned about the problems that come into your life. This leads to various stages of panic. Here, patients often experience similar feelings to death or going crazy without a specific reason.

Another possibility is that some people suffer from panic disorder and depression that is independent of all others. This means that these people may feel panic sometimes when they are depressed and may experience a feeling of depression when they are not getting panic.

Most people who suffer from panic disorder may experience panic attacks due to various reasons, such as a cold, hangover, depression, lack of sleep etc. This is because they are extremely aware sensitive to their bodies.

The best thing to do in these situations is to start a treatment that addresses a specific problem. Fortunately, several treatment options are available these days to cure depression and panic. You can do a lot of medications, remedies for depression and psychotherapy.

Treatment of panic and depression is very effective and widely available. You can choose any of medication, therapy relaxation techniques and more remedies.

However, the benefit of effective treatment and alternative remedies requires one to monitor the potential symptoms of panic and depression. This is the only way to treat the condition in time. After starting treatment, you will find it really relaxing. You will feel good inside. This is the key to remove the condition.

Herbal remedies for depression and its symptoms

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 02:52:56 -0700

Depression is a very real and treated the disease. Depressive disorders are not the same as a passing blue mood. Depression is very common and affects as many as one in eight young men, in their years. Depression is generally situational and reactive, and associated with pain, loss, or a major social transition. Sadness is a part of being human, a natural reaction to painful circumstances.

All of us will experience sadness at some point in our lives. Depression, however, is a physical illness with many more symptoms than an unhappy mood. Depression affects people of every color, race, economic status or age, however, seems to affect more women than men during adolescence and adulthood. It is usually started aged 15 and 30. It is more common in women. Women can also get postpartum depression after the birth of a child. Some people get seasonal affective in winter disorder. Depression is one part of bipolar disorder. Depressive disorders come in many forms, as is the case with other illnesses such as heart disease. This pamphlet briefly describes three of the most common types of depressive disorders. However, within these types there are variations in the number of symptoms, their severity, and persistence.

Five major types of anxiety disorders are:
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Panic Disorder
Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder

The Link between Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are dangerous mental illnesses. Unfortunately, they can also go hand-in-hand, making everyday life very difficult for the person who is suffering. Fortunately, if the conditions are recognized and proper help is obtained, they can be overcome successfully.

Ayurvedic herbal remedies for depression tips:

?    Add some fresh Rose petals to a cup of boiling water. Add sugar and drink, often depressed.
?    An Apple eaten with milk and honey is great to lift the mood. Home best remedy for depression.
?    Powder seeds 2 green cardamoms. Add 1 cup boiling water, add sugar and drink this tea twice a day.
?    A neutral immersion bath for one hour daily is also useful to treat depression.
?    Relaxation and meditation are also effective measures to treat depression. The best way to relax is to practice putting shavasana or dead. Meditation involves training to remain fixed to a specific location on the internal or external.
?    Mediation helps to create balance in the nervous system.
?    Lying down in a dark room can make a 1 / 2 hours of sleep will always make you feel better.
?    Another cure for depression is a tea made of Indian basil (Tulsi) and grief. Use 1 / 4 teaspoon Tulsi and 1 / 2 teaspoon of sage per cup of hot water, drink twice a day.
?    Blanch a cup of boiling water, add honey, wait 3 minutes and drink.
?    Warm avocado leaves and put them on the forehead.
?    Cook and eat: white lily, rice bulb, palm and tulip (add nothing more).
?    Cook oatmeal to 1 cup of rice milk or soy milk, boil and stir for one minute at a temperature of law. Can add nuts, almonds, dried fruit, honey.
?    Blanch very well to make tea and drink.
?    Stir 1 teaspoon lavender leaves to a cup of boiling water, cool and drink 3 times daily.
?    Eat: nuts, cheese and a tablespoon of cider vinegar in a glass of water.
?    Eat at least 5 bananas a day, reduced to one time.
?    Eat a lot of pumpkin seeds.
?    Various yogic Asanas like halasana, paschimottanasana, Sarvangasana, shavasana, shalabhasana, vakrasana, bhujangasana and pranayamas as kapalbhati, bhastrika are very beneficial in the treatment of depression.
?    Cook oatmeal to 1 cup of rice milk or soy milk, boil and stir for one minute at a temperature of law.

Depression's Signs
Everyone feels blue from time to time, but real depression is a like a black cloud that smothers. If left untreated, these conditions can Leal to suicide. Being aware of the signs of depression is imperative. Common signs include:
Changes in eating habits
Thoughts of suicide or death
Feelings of guilt, hopelessness
A feeling of sadness that persists for several weeks or longer

Anxiety and depression are both very real, very serious illnesses. Fortunately, both can be treated rather effectively if their signs and symptoms are recognized and acted upon properly. Counseling and medication can help a person overcome these conditions. Trying to work through a combination of anxiety and depression alone generally is not advised.

DLPA: The Bodies Mood Elevating And Pain Relieving Amino Acid

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 06:46:04 -0800

DLPA is a remarkable supplement which may be ideal for those suffering from chronic pain of many kinds as well as depression. DLPA (DL-phenylalanine) is available without prescription at health food stores and some pharmacies around the world. Phenylalanine is structurally related to dopamine, adrenaline, and L-tyrosine essential amino acids and hormones of the body. DL-Phenylalanine is labeled as a nutritional supplement which has impressive anti-depressant activity.

Recently, DL-phenylalanine has been getting attention throughout the United States for its ability to reduce chronic pain and depression. What if, instead of pumping drugs into our bodies to relieve pain, we could use the natural substances that have zero side effects? DLPA has been found to be most useful in these areas. Chronic pain might include back pain, arthritis, pain due to diseases such as cancer, and, headache pain. Studies conducted on this amino acid have shown that it effectively blocks arthritis pain and joint inflammation in many patients.

The essential amino acid DL-Phenylalanine is a natural compound that protects against the breakdown of enkephalins, a neurotransmitter that act as your body’s own pain reducer. Phenylalanine comes in two forms which are mirror images of each other L-phenylalanine which has a nutritional value, and D-phenylalanine which has pain killing and depression alleviating value which is attributed to its ability to block the breakdown of enkephalins, the brains natural pain killer neurotransmitter.

Phenylalanine is not the sweetener Aspartame but in its natural form, is an essential amino acid of tremendous nutritional importance. Phenylalanine is one of the amino acids which the body cannot manufacture itself, but must acquire from food; most vegetarians are low in this amino acid due to the lack of meat consumption.

Exercise can also help release the body's natural painkillers such as endorphins. Many herbs on the market have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties like turmeric and boswellia which greatest affect on the body to promote a healthy inflammation response and reduce pain. DLPA also helps relieve discomfort by prolonging the activity of enkephalins, the body’s own pain-blocking process. A combination of turmeric, Boswellia, and DLPA can yield an impressive pain relieving response in the body that rivals even prescription drugs.

As discussed earlier L-phenylalanine is associated with elevated levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which may alleviate symptoms of depression, and D-phenylalanine works to block pain signals. DL-Phenylalanine is also involved in the release of (PEA), phenyl ethylamine, a neurotransmitter closely related to norepinephrine (adrenaline), and which can sensitize endorphin receptors to endorphins, and aids in the relief of depression and the regulation of mood as well as pain.

DLPA is also effective in lessening cravings like hunger or smoking as well as lessen irritability. Phenylalanine activity is enhanced by additional Vitamin B 6, especially in studies on depression. The D-form of phenylalanine cannot be converted to tyrosine, but it can be converted to another compound called phenyl ethylamine which may have effects in elevating mood, treating depression and altering pain sensation.

DLPA also helps the body release serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, and when it's low it may leave you with a bad mood, poor concentration, and a headache. Serotonin is our natural mood stabilizer, sleep promoter, and mind-focusing chemical if we have enough of all four, our emotions are stable.

Drugs like Prozac are called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s) because they keep whatever serotonin we have active. Before there were SSRI’s, the amino acid L-tryptophan was commonly used to increase serotonin levels. Vitamin B6 is the cofactor for enzymes that convert L-tryptophan to serotonin and L-tyrosine to adrenaline. So, a person who has a functional deficiency in serotonin could experience depression. Taking tryptophan can help those who are on drugs like Prozac or those who are depressed.

In conclusion, Phenylalanine can in fact aid in depression and pain management naturally. It is found naturally in foods such as eggs, milk, and bananas. Phenylalanine is also found in foods that are high in protein, such as beef, chicken, legumes, soy, whole grains, and nuts. Phenylalanine is known to be the antagonist of tryptophan and then serotonin in the body. Phenylalanine is one of the essential amino acids, meaning that everybody must get it from their diet and if you are not then supplementation of this vital amino acid is imperative.

Worse Effect of Insomnia

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 18:50:54 -0800

Although there are many side effects of insomnia that can interfere with your daily life, there is one side effect of insomnia that is the most dangerous of all. Which one is it? Quite simply, lack of concentration and focus.

The lack of concentration and focus brought on by insomnia can be deadly, for both you and for those whom are around you. Why is this? Because you will not react to situations neither as quickly nor as efficiently as you normally would with a good night's rest. Obviously, this means little if you're at home on the couch or if you're sitting in your office quietly, as no one will likely be in danger. However, in an area that requires your full attention & focus, such as the road for instance, the dangers can be immense.

A split second of indecisiveness on the road could cost you your life or it could cost the life of a fellow driver. And since you aren't operating at 100% efficiency, the odds of you being a bit indecisive or "distracted" are quite high. For more details visit to www.make-your-ebook-sell.com .How can you get this effect of insomnia under control? By getting a more restful night's sleep, that's how .Unfortunately though, this isn't an easy task for insomnia sufferers, as they have many obstacles keeping them from obtaining a good night's sleep. The best way to reach "peaceful sleep" is to identify those obstacles -- whether they are stress, poor diet, or a deeper more sinister health problem -- and then take the appropriate action to remove them.

If you're a â€œhealthyâ€ insomniac, meaning you don't have any underlying illnesses causing your sleeping problem, follow these 5 insomnia tips.

- Use Sleep Music: There are specific sounds, patterns, and rhythmic tunes that are specially designed to lull you to sleep. For more tips visit to www.ebook-marketing-exposed.com .Listen to these sounds while in bed and you may find that sleep overcomes you more easily.

- Get a Massage: A massage can be very soothing, allowing you to more easily relax and get comfortable. Ask a love one (or trained professional) to gently massage your shoulders or back before going to sleep.

- Take a Warm Bath: 20 to 30 minutes in a warm bath can be very relaxing, allowing even the most sleep deprived individual to get into "sleep mode". Add some bath salts for an even more relaxing treatment.

- Don't Sleep In. Sleeping in, no matter how much you want to, will throw your bed time schedule completely out-of-whack. Even if it's the weekend, make it a goal to get up at the same time each day.

- No More Alcohol or Tobacco: Studies show that alcohol and tobacco abuse upset a person's natural sleeping rhythm .Having said that, stop smoking and drinking during the day if you want to sleep better at night.

These insomnia tips should be able to help you relax and get better nights sleep. If you're able to get more restful sleep each night because of these tips, well, the most dangerous side effect of insomnia won't interfere with your life anymore; which means lives may have been saved!

Depression: Don't Suffer In Silence Get Help Fast

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

For many people who suffer with depression, it is often the case that they do this in silence but there are many professionals out there, ready and willing to assist. There are now a number of depression medications on the market which doctors can prescribe to help with the condition. Today after many years of research and study, depression can be beaten but this does need an early diagnosis for this but unfortunately for some people the cost might not make it possible. Cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapies are two incredibly healthy depression treatments that are just some of the available psychosocial treatments that cognitive behavior therapists can offer to their patients. Patients suffering with depression can benefit from short-term therapy and positive results are quite normal in less than five months. Before getting started on any medication, the patient must first get themselves to a reputable doctor; get a diagnosis of which type of depression they are suffering from: whether it is clinical, manic or another type. Owing to the large number of depression medications currently available, it would be easy to give the wrong one and make the condition worse. Drug companies have, over the years, realized the extent of the problem and considerable research has gone into producing a very wide range of drugs. The more popular ones are those that are of the selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors then there are the tricyclics while the other popular variant is the monoamine oxidase inhibitor. Side effects are the real problem and can be worse than the condition they are treating this is why the tricyclics are not used as much today. Often, the doctor will actually mix the medications if it will help the patient. It is not uncommon for the doctor under these circumstances to prescribe two or more of the drugs if it will benefit the patient's condition. In addition to this, the dosages can actually be increased or lowered depending on what the doctor finds to be the most effective. Patients taking depression medication are always warned not to try this for themselves as it something only a qualified professional should do. The patient must also learn that sedatives and other anti-anxiety medications are not anti-depressant drugs and should not be used as substitutes. While they may be of help in combination with other anti-depressants medications, they are not designed for curing the condition. Their purpose is to help calm the nerves, which is why depression medications are still required to be taken by the depression patient. .There are actually some common side-effects, usually coming from the tricyclic variety. Not everyone is affected in the same way and many are quite happy to put up with them and this is not normally a problem unless it affects the person's ability to function normally. In any situation like this the first course of action is to report it to your physician as soon as possible.

I Am Feeling Low Do I Have Depression?

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Depression is one of the most crippling, but misunderstood disorders ever encountered; research has come up with several different types now, each with its own unique characteristics and symptoms. People suffer for different reasons but basically it is a result of having some unresolved issues in their lives; all of us occasionally become depressed over certain events. People who are depressed require specialized medical help with their condition and should seek it at an early stage; this help is needed to find out why you are depressed as this will eventually help finding a cure for the problem. We can all have periods when we feel very low and there is normally a very good reason for this feeling; this is especially true if you've had a recent traumatic experience in your life, but it doesn't necessarily mean that you're suffering from depression. Probably the most likely cause is stress, often owing to family or other relationship problems which for one reason or another cannot be readily solved; eventually if the situation is allowed to continue, the problem will just get worse. If you just try to ignore it and do not take any action, seek help or treatment, you may end up with more problems; the answer is to get the help needed to face the problem and stop it controlling your life. Many more people become depressed owing their job which may be stressful, or there could be problems with managers and other co-workers which are difficult to resolve; without an intermediary stepping in these circumstances often result in the person suffering with panic attacks as well. Together with this, you may also experience feelings of stress and unhappiness and become unsure how to handle problems; it may be necessary to work through the issues with a professional to get back on track again. There are times where a person has been prescribed medication for an illness, for example, and a side effect caused by the chemicals in the medication is depression; this can give rise to these feelings even though the person does not have any emotional problems. If signs like this become apparent, the medication needs to be stopped as soon as possible and the doctor who prescribed the medication consulted. A worse situation happens where despite the best efforts of everyone involved, the reason for the person's depression cannot be found; when they don't seem to have any cause that can be identified as the reason for the problem, medical staff will have to research the patient further. The problem can arise when the person cannot see that a certain situation or event for instance, as the cause; when this happens the person cannot associate the condition with the cause. Although around for a long time, it is well known that manic depression or bipolar as it is also known can be hard to diagnose; owing to the type of symptoms displayed by this condition, some people wait up to five years to have a correct diagnosis made. Once a person has become depressed, it has reached a stage where they need help to overcome it but they must realize this for themselves if the treatment is too be successful. Delay is the worst thing to do, so seek medical help as soon as you realize the problem is not going away; a full recovery is possible providing you take the appropriate steps.

When Does Fad Dieting Become an Eating Disorder

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Do people who frequently go on fad diets have an eating disorder? To have a diagnosable eating disorder you have to have certain characteristics. As of yet there is no diagnosis for repetitive fad dieters, but it is it definitely is disordered eating pattern. There are many similarities in fad dieting and eating disorders. Fad dieters do not like their body and have an unhealthy relationship with food. Many fad dieters have low self esteem and are depressed. Fad dieters restrict their caloric intake to extremes. Fad dieters may try one weight loss scheme after another. Some fad dieters use diet pills, diuretics and laxatives. For some fad dieters the only reason for exercise is to improve their appearance. Fad dieters may have episodes of binge eating. Not all people who try fad diets fit the description above. In both fad dieters and eating disordered individuals there is dissatisfaction with one's body, and an unhealthy relationship with food. Food should be enjoyed and fuel our systems to function. For instance, we should not be afraid to enjoy a sugary treat. Some women begin to worry about their bodies in there teens. The media bombards us with super thin models that are happy. Normal weight and overweight teens strive for an unattainable goal and sometimes use dangerous methods. When their weight goals are not met it affects their self esteem. There is precise moment that a teen develops an eating disorder. Some things to look for are talking about how fat they are constantly, peculiar eating or not eating, and depression Some men worry about their weight because of health issues less than appearance. Overweight teenage boys may suffer the same kind of feelings that the girls do. Men can also develop and eating disorder. Fad diets why are they bad is because they can lead to an eating disorder. If a person is continuously trying strange fat diets and do not really lose weight that can lead to depression. If the body is not getting the nutrients it needs it can lead to depression. Severe dieters may have deficiencies in their Vitamin B's, Vitamin C, folic acid and Tryptophan just to name a few. These deficiencies have been linked with depression. Side effects from extreme dieing include irritability, feelings of depression, fatigue, dehydration, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and electrolyte imbalance. These symptoms can lead to more serious symptoms like a stroke or a hear attack. Teens should be monitored for these symptoms of strange eating patterns and depression. Mothers should model healthy eating habits and do not talk negatively of their body. If a teen develops an eating disorder it can follow them through life. To help beat depression and side effects of fad dieting, first start with well balanced meals and healthy snacks. Snacks are important they keep you from getting to hungry and overeating. Eating well may be all that you need for your depression cure. Avoid fad dieting. Fad dieting why are they bad is because they do not deliver what they promise. They do not teach you how to eat healthy. Eating healthy means eating a variety of foods form all the food groups. If you need to lose weight reduce your calorie count and start exercising. Exercising is a big mood booster and it will kick off your weight loss plan. Most women can lose weight on 1500 calories and men can lose it at 1800 calories. If your depression does not lift after a few weeks go see your doctor. Try to love your body and treat it well, it is the only one you got. If you need help with a diet plan go to a Dietician. There is information everywhere, just know what is unhealthy and what to avoid. If you cannot stop restricting your meals or using diet pills, laxatives or diuretics, you should see your doctor. Eating disorders are addictive and you may need professional help.

Effects of Diet on Mood

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700

It is not hard to believe that what we ingest can affect every organ in our body. So our diet affects are brain too, our mood in particular. There are a lot of factors that can contribute to depression. Psychosocial and biological changes can change our mood. If food is a factor in your depression, the good news is that is something you can change. Clinical depression has more significant symptoms then just feeling blue. Clinical depression is a medical disease which symptoms include: low energy, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, hyper or hyposomnia, eating too much or not eating enough and thoughts of death and suicide. If you have these symptoms for more than two weeks you should see a professional. You may need more than dietary changes to find your depression cure. For some people being overweight can cause low self esteem and signs of depression. These people may try fad diets that promise to lose weight quickly. They are soon disappointed. The weight they lose on such diets is water wight and is regained when you resume your regular diet. This may leave people more depressed and desperate to lose wight, looking for another fad diet to try. Fad diets why are they bad is because the calorie restriction of them can be dangerous. Fad dieting can cause a number of physical complications including fatigue, decreased immunity system, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, anemia and electrolyte imbalances. Extreme dieting can leave the dieter with intense cravings for carbohydrates. Rigid dieting can cause depression and low energy. To what degree depends on how long the individual has been starving themself. Fad diets are only meant for short term use. They should not be used at all. Fad diets why are they bad is because they can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies that are linked to depression such as; Vitamin B's, Vitamin C, Zinc and Tryptophan to name a few. Your diet can contribute to depression but is not has not been proven to be a singular cause. Changing your diet can help your depression but it may not be your depression cure. Fad dieting can lead to depressed feelings. A person may feel down when they cannot keep the weight off. Then they try another quick weight loss diet and fail again. This is called yoyo dieting and contributes to poor nutrition. Fad diets why are the bad is because the can lead to yoyo dieting and poor nutrition and depression When we treat our bodies right and feed them a healthy diet we feel better. Eating healthy includes integrating grains, fats, protein, dairy products, vegetables and fruits into your diet everyday. Exercise is known to lift mood. During exercise the body releases chemicals called endorphins. This is why we feel so good after we exercise. You just have to find something you like or are able to do and stick with it. A well balanced diet should contain all the vitamins and minerals needed for your body. A blood essay can show what your body lacks. It never hurts to take a multivitamin. Women may need extra calcium to keep their bones strong. You should not need any other supplements unless your doctor tests your blood and says you do. A healthy diet and exercise plan may be all you need for your depression cure. You can adjust your caloric intake if you want to lose weight. If you still feel depressed after two weeks or more you may need to see a professional, you may be clinically depressed. Poor diets can affect your mood with feelings of depression. Eating healthy and exercising may change that. If this alone does not make you feel better you need to your physician and see if you are clinically depressed. If you have thoughts of death of suicide go to your nearest emergency room.

Fad Diets and Their Effects On Depression

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Going on a fad diet is a desperate method for those trying to lose weight. Fad diets why are they bad is because they do not work and leave people feeling helpless. The dieter may get disappointed and feel down on them self. Fad dieting can leave the body deficient in certain nutrients that the body needs to function. Fad dieting is not a long term solution to your weight problem. Fad diets should be avoided. The vitamin and mineral deficiencies of a poor diet are: all the B Vitamins, folic acid, Vitamin C, zinc and Tryptophan to name a few. Fad diets why are they bad is because they deplete the body of essential nutrients to function. Some people that are overweight have very low self esteem and self worth. These are symptoms of depression. Fad diets why the are bad is because of the side effects that can occur. These side effects include irritability, depression, dehydration, weakness, and electrolyte imbalances. Electrolyte imbalance is very dangerous. Electrolytes control the nervous and circulatory systems in our body. For instance, very low potassium can put you at risk for a heart attack. If you stay on fad diets or yoyo diets for long lengths of time put you at a greater risk for osteoporosis from calcium deficiencies. Fad dieting has also been linked with gallstones, a greater risk of stokes and heart attacks. There are healthy ways to lose weight including a moderate reduction of calories and implementing an exercise program. A balanced diet including the essential food groups could lead a role in your depression cure. If you are overeating because of emotional issues you have to find another coping mechanism. Try eating healthier snacks at first and you can get away from comfort eating with sugars. A balanced weight loss diet including 1400 to 1500 calories a day and an exercise program will put you on the road to recovery. You will feel better about yourself. Exercise causes the release of endorphins in our body that make us feel good during and after exercising. There is a lot of evidence to support that a poor diet affects our body and mind. Some diets suggest you eat more frequently 5 to 6 mini meals a day. This keeps your blood sugar up so you will be less likely to overeat, less likely to feel fatigued and keep your mood up. If you overeat or binge because of stress or sadness, it would not hurt to see a counselor. If you need help choosing foods or calculating portion sizes you could get help from dietician. The nice thing about some of the good organized diet franchises is that they offer support to their members. They let them know they are not alone. Depression is very isolating and lonely because you do not want to go out and do things. Maybe you do not want people to see how much weight you have gained. Forget it; do not let your weight control your life. Life is to short. Even if you do not feel like doing something, do it anyway. You need friends and support. If your health is being compromised by your diet or weight gain you need to do something different now. Let go of the notion that you can lose weight fast. You need to start exercsing, even if it is just around the block for starters. You will feel better. The more you are out doing things with people the better you will feel, less you will eat and you will burn more calories just by moving. Depression is insidious, and you have to find tools to fight it. Maybe your doctor has suggested that you should lose weight before you ruin your health. Listen to your doctor. Being overweight can take a toll on the body over time. You are at risk for knee and hip replacements because your own cannot carry the load anymore. If you are overweight you are at risk for cardiac problems and diabetes and all their complications. It does not matter whether you were depressed before or after you gained weight. Forget about fad diets. The important thing is you health, including your mental health. Find support, start a healthy diet plan and exercise at leaser 3 times a week. These measures may be all you need for your depression cure.

How Stress Can Affect Your Body And What You Can Do About It

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700

Stress is a very common symptom nowadays. Nearly everyone is experiencing stress from time to time. Although this is no necessarily good, it will do no harm to your body. But what happens if you experience stress nearly all the time? What are the effects of stress on the body and what can you do against it? Hair is considered by many a barometer of your inner health. So in stressful situations your hair may be the first part of your body to feel the repercussions. Hair loss is just another annoying way it can get the best of you. It basically boils down to your body being out-of-whack. This is just one of the many effects that stress can have on the body. Cortisol is one of our primary stress hormones, and is often used to measure the stress response. Stress in itself is not necessarily a bad thing. Cortisol however is required in other processes such as laying down of new memories. But elevated levels of Cortisol affects the memory and if prolonged, can damage the hippocampus, the part of the brain which is concerned with memory. Chronic stress can definitely harm your memory. Cortisol strongly suppresses the immune system. This means that a person experiencing chronic stress is more vulnerable to colds and viral flare ups. Cortisol, a hormone produced in the adrenal glands, plays an important role in the body's regulation of cardiovascular function and fat, protein and carbohydrate utilization. When the body experiences stress, Cortisol secretion increases, thus causing a breakdown of muscle protein and the release of amino acids to form glucose via gluconeogenesis, which means you are losing muscle tissue. Chronically elevated hormone levels shift the balance of water, oxygen and vital nutrients - which skin needs to thrive - impairing its natural immune function and its ability to properly heal and replenish itself. The result can range from excess oil production and breakouts to dehydration, irritation and inflammation, all of which can contribute to premature skin aging. Chronic stress can lead to heart disease or unstable angina. Angina leads to pain in your chest brought which is caused by insufficient supply of oxygen. Chronic daily stress (ie. a few common signs of weak adrenal function are: overeating and weight gain, low feeling of energy or fatigue, irritability, chronic tiredness, oversleeping and frequent immune system break down. Feelings of being insecure, lacking in confidence, and feeling overwhelmed are also the emotional effects of stress to a person. Feel that tension in your neck, are your shoulders around your ears? The body will restrict circulation in an effort to limit the movement of bacteria and invading substances. Feel your stomach rising and falling. If your mind is racing, count your breaths, to slow down and get the relaxation you need. Yoga can help you greatly to change your stress level. Yoga also helps to improve body alignment resulting in better posture and helping to relieve back, neck, joint and muscle problems. Yoga is a great way to reduce stress. Studies have shown that daily meditation can actually reduce blood pressure and helps in getting rid of stress symptoms and it is a wonderful way to alleviate the effects of stress on the body.